36ers add former champion to NBL24 roster

Adelaide has boosted its frontcourt stocks with the signing of former South East Melbourne forward and New Zealand representative Tohi Smith-Milner on a one-year deal.

Smith-Milner has played the entirety of his NBL career to date in Melbourne. Before two seasons with South East Melbourne the 27-year-old spent five seasons with Melbourne United – including the 2018 title triumph.

He has also won two NZNBL titles and bronze medals with his country at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and 2022 Asia Cup.

“I have played my whole NBL career in Victoria, so it’s going to be a little bit different, but a new, exciting experience,” Smith-Milner said.

36ers head coach CJ Bruton said the addition of Smith-Milner will bring added toughness and resilience to the NBL24 roster.

“Tohi is a smart basketballer and is willing to do all those tough things for the group to succeed,” Bruton said.

“He will set a tough screen, play hard defence, make the right play, and he can shoot the ball.”

Smith-Milner said his relationship with new assistant coach Craig Simpson, who was an assistant at the Phoenix last season, played a big part in his decision to make the move.

“I know Craig from last year, and the minute I found out he was coming across I said ‘sweet, I’m signing, where do I need to sign’,” Smith-Milner said.

“I worked with Craig last year at Phoenix and I enjoyed all the conversations with him.

“I also have worked with Pop (Nik Popovic, Head of High Performance) at United for a year.”